In a medieval hall which has witnessed so much of the country's history, the Queen responded to tributes marking her glorious 60-year reign.During the ceremony in Parliament's Westminster Hall, the sovereign unveiled a stained glass window in celebration of her Diamond Jubilee.
It has been paid for personally by members of both Houses and designed by British artist John Reyntiens.
In a tradition dating back to the 16th century, a 'humble address' was offered by Lords Speaker, Baroness De Souza, who praised her "continuity and stability".She was followed by Commons Speaker John Bercow.
Those present included David Cameron, Nick Clegg, Ed Miliband, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. Earlier this month, the Prime Minister paid his tribute to the Diamond monarch in Parliament.Mr Cameron told MPs: "While the sands of culture shift and the tides of politics ebb and flow, Her Majesty has been a permanent anchor – bracing Britain against the storms, grounding us in certainty. "And crucially, simultaneously, she has moved the monarchy forward. It has been said that 'the art of progress is to preserve order amid change and change amid order', and in this the Queen is unparalleled.
"She has never shut the door on the future; instead, she has led the way through it. Ushering in the television cameras. Opening up the Royal Collection and the Palaces. Hosting receptions and awards ceremonies for every area of public life. "Like her previous 11 prime ministers, I have been struck by Her Majesty's perspective on world events. And like my predecessors I am truly grateful for the way she handles our national interests.Last year's visit to Ireland was a lesson in statecraft. It showed once again that the Queen can extend the hand of friendship like no other. "By the time she opens the Olympics, the Queen's Jubilee tour will have taken her and Prince Philip to every part of the United Kingdom. "In June, London will see a huge pop concert, a great procession and the largest gathering on the Thames for more than three centuries barges and cutters; narrow boats and motor boats square riggers, naval vessels, the little ships of Dunkirk all of them will be there to pay tribute to our magnificent Queen. "Diamond is an appropriate epithet for this jubilee. For 60 years Her Majesty has been a point of light in our national life; brilliant, enduring and resilient.For that she has the respect of this House, and the enduring affection of her people."
